Richard J. Finnegan Collection, 1929-1953

Collection Identifier: C.2010-08

Repository CFA

Extent of collection 29 16mm films totaling 5,840 feet

Inclusive Dates 1929 - 1953

Bulk Dates 1929 - 1953

Abstract The Richard J. Finnegan collection is a series of home movies, travelogues and amateur shorts shot by Chicago Sun-Times editor Richard J. Finnegan between 1929 and 1953. Many of the films in this collection creatively meld narrative inter-titles with non-fiction footage, and employ cinematic conventions such as slow motion and narrative-style editing. Subject matter spans trips to Yellowstone, Eureka, Bermuda and various parts of Northern and Southern California, personal films of notable events such as the 1929 Olympics in Los Angeles, and "classic" home movie family films of vacations, holidays and events, including birthday parties, baptisms, a wedding, Christmas and Halloween celebrations.

Creator

Finnegan, Richard (created by)Richard J. Finnegan (1884-1955) was a Chicago newspaper reporter and the former Editor and Publisher of the Chicago Times which he helped to merge with Marshall Field's Chicago Sun to form the Chicago Sun-Times. He also pioneered the use of news photography. Finnegan dedicated much of his time to various organizations, notably as President of Chicago's La Rabida Children's Hospital in Jackson Park.

Custodial HistoryThe Finnegan collection was bequeathed to Philip W. Loarie upon his mother's passing in 1984. Prior to that, the films were stored in a family room in Deerfield, Illinois. From 1984 until 2010 the films were kept in Northern California with Philip W. Loarie.

Access Restrictions This collection is open to on-site access. Appointments must be made with Chicago Film Archives. Due to the fragile nature of the films, only video copies will be provided for on-site viewing.

Use Restrictions Chicago Film Archives holds the rights to the films in this collection.